The Speaker of the House is the leader of the U.S. House of Representatives. They are elected by the House membership every two years. The Speaker fills three primary roles:
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Spokesperson: The Speaker is the most visible and authoritative spokesperson for the majority party in the House. They articulate an agenda and explain legislative action to other Washington officials as well as the public.
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Manager: The Speaker manages business on the floor and oversees House committee assignments. They collaborate with the powerful House Rules Committee to structure floor debate.
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Administrator: The Speaker is responsible for administering the oath of office to the Members of the U.S. House of Representatives, giving Members permission to speak on the House floor, designating Members to serve as Speaker pro tempore, counting and declaring all votes, appointing Members to committees, sending bills to committees, and signing bills and resolutions that pass in the House.
The Speaker is also second in line, behind the Vice President, to become President should the President be unable to fulfill his or her duties. The Speaker is responsible for ensuring that the House passes legislation supported by the majority party. They also chair the majority partys steering committee in the House. The Speaker sets the Houses legislative agenda, controls committee assignments, sets the vote and work calendar, and is responsible for keeping their party members unified behind major initiatives. As the presiding officer of the House, the Speaker maintains order, manages its proceedings, and governs the administration of its business.
